Cost-Effectiveness of a Community-Based Elderly Safety Promotion Program in Sweden
Author Information
Author(s): Pia Johansson, Siv Sadigh, Per Tillgren, Clas Rehnberg
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institutet
Hypothesis
Can a non-pharmaceutical community-based safety promotion program targeting accidental falls be considered cost-effective?
Conclusion
The community-based elderly safety promotion program aiming at preventing accidental falls is as cost-effective as osteoporosis pharmaceuticals.
Supporting Evidence
- The program resulted in an estimated 14 avoided hip fractures over six years.
- Total societal intervention costs were approximately 6.45 million SEK.
- The analysis showed a gain of 35 QALYs with zero net costs.
- Cost-effectiveness was assessed using a Markov model based on Swedish data.
- The program is likely to be cost-effective compared to osteoporosis pharmaceuticals.
- Only 9 avoided hip fractures are needed for the program to be considered very cost-effective.
- The study conformed to recommendations from the Swedish Pharmaceutical Benefits Board.
Takeaway
This study shows that a program to help older people avoid falls can save money and help them live healthier lives.
Methodology
A quasi-experimental longitudinal analysis with several control areas was used to evaluate the program's effectiveness over six years.
Potential Biases
The accuracy of the effect evaluation is difficult to ascertain due to the small geographical areas and potential chance affecting estimates.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the program's effects due to reliance on register data and potential dilution of effects from resident migration.
Participant Demographics
The program targeted a community of around 5,500 inhabitants aged 65 and older.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95%
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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